Jaén in 3: Culture, Nature, and Olive Oil

Discover the hidden gems of Jaén, Spain's best-kept secret.

03 May 2023

As a tourist visiting Jaén, Spain, you can explore the beautiful Renaissance architecture of the Cathedral de Jaén and admire the breathtaking views from the Castle of Santa Catalina. Indulge in delicious culinary delights such as the local dish of flamenquín or a refreshing glass of tinto de verano. With a historical and cultural ambiance, Jaén is the perfect destination for a meaningful getaway.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Historic Jaén

  • Start your day with a traditional breakfast at Café Baraka, known for its delicious tostadas and strong coffee.
  • Head to the Castillo de Santa Catalina, a stunning fortress that offers panoramic views of Jaén.
  • After admiring the castle, visit the Cathedral de Jaén, an impressive gothic-style cathedral with intricate carvings and a stunning altar.
  • For lunch, head to Bodegas César, a local eatery that is famous for its delicious tapas and affordable wine selection.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the winding streets of Jaén's old town, filled with charming shops and historic landmarks.
  • In the evening, indulge in a traditional Spanish dinner at El Pato Rojo, a cozy restaurant that serves up mouth-watering dishes like paella and chorizo.
  • Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Infanta Cristina a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Jaén's old town.
Day 2

Olive Oil Tasting

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Los Rios, a charming café that serves up fresh croissants and steaming hot café con leches.
  • Take a day trip to nearby olive groves, where you can learn all about how olive oil is made and even sample some of the best oils in all of Spain.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Casa-Museo de la Magia, a quirky museum that explores the world of magic and illusion.
  • For lunch, head back into town and enjoy a refreshing salad and tasty sandwich at La Cajita Azul, a cozy café with a bohemian vibe.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Parque del Seminario, a beautiful park with fountains, statues, and plenty of shade.
  • In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at La Taberna del Sur, a cozy restaurant that serves up flavorful dishes like grilled octopus and lamb chops.
  • Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Xauen a stylish, modern hotel located in the heart of Jaén's commercial district.
Day 3

Nature and Culture

  • Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at La Abuela Antolina, a charming café with a quaint, throwback feel.
  • Spend the morning exploring the Parque Natural Sierra de Cazorla, a stunning natural park filled with beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and gorgeous vistas.
  • For lunch, head back into Jaén and enjoy some tasty home-style cooking at El Doblón de Plata, a cozy eatery that serves up traditional Spanish fare.
  • In the afternoon, explore the Palacio de Villardompardo, a stunning palace that's now home to a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Jaén.
  • In the evening, enjoy a sunset drink at the rooftop bar of Restaurante aKua, where you can sip craft cocktails while taking in panoramic views of Jaén
  • Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Europa a charming hotel housed in a beautifully restored historical building, located just steps from Jaén's central square.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Jaén by plane is to fly to Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX) and then take a bus or a car from the airport to Jaén. The journey by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the journey by car takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Jaén by car is to take the A-44 motorway from Granada. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Jaén. The closest railway station to Jaén is Linares-Baeza Station, which is approximately 25 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or a car to Jaén.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no direct boats to Jaén as it is an inland city. The closest port is the Port of Algeciras, which is approximately 250 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or a car to Jaén.

Bus

The best way to get to Jaén by bus is to take a direct bus from Madrid to Jaén. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Granada, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Destination

Jaén

Welcome to the land of olive oil and Spanish grandmas who make sure you're eating enough. Jaén is one of Spain's hidden gems, full of charming towns and a surplus of delicious tapas.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Jaén on a Budget: 4 Days of Culture and Adventure

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